Key Takeaways:
– Pixar regains its footing with the success of ‘Inside Out 2’
– ‘Inside Out 2’ tops ‘Dune: Part 2’ at the box office
– The sequel to the 2015 hit film has already passed the $500 million global sales mark
– Pete Docter opens up about the challenges and aspirations of developing ‘Inside Out 2’
Pixar’s Comeback With ‘Inside Out 2’
2024 has been a year of ups and downs for movie studios, and Pixar is no exception. With their previous movies Lightyear and Elemental receiving lukewarm responses, Pixar seemed to be in a slump. However, Inside Out 2 has put the studio back in the spotlight. Not only has the animated sequel scored a huge success, but it has also bumped Denis Villeneuve’s Dune: Part 2 off the box office throne.
Meteoric Rise with ‘Inside Out 2’
People could say Pixar was struggling after Lightyear and Elemental failed at the box office. But, Inside Out 2 has completely changed that narrative. The animated film has held steady since its release on June 14. The Hollywood Reporter reveals that it has raked in over $283 million in domestic ticket sales within the first week, edging past Dune: Part 2’s $282.1 million.
What’s more, Inside Out 2 tops worldwide chart with sales crossing over $500 million. While Dune: Part 2 is performing better overseas, Inside Out 2 is progressively closing the gap. Citing The Hollywood Reporter, it’s speculated that Inside Out 2 could end its second weekend with ticket sales between $600 to $700 million.
Capitalizing on the Success of ‘Inside Out’
Riding on the massive popularity of the original Inside Out film released in 2015, the sequel’s victory isn’t surprising. With a $200 million budget, it’s evident the film has reaped great returns. Even before its release, Pete Docter, the director, had high hopes for the film’s success.
The original Inside Out film spun a new whirlwind of emotions, uncovering a world within our brains. It set a new standard for the animation genre, and expectations for the sequel were through the roof.
Before the second installment hit theatres, Docter had a chat with TIME about the pressures to create something even better. He confided the difficulty in generating fresh ideas that would appeal to audiences, while also acknowledging the impact the movies have had on viewers. According to Docter, many people could identify with the emotions and scenarios in their films.
Emphasizing on Sequels
While discussing Pixar’s strategy of releasing sequels, Docter explained the necessity of producing films with relatable plots and characters. Given that most audiences are likely to have seen the prequels, they are expected to enjoy the following installments. In that sense, he believes sequels hold an advantage.
Looking Ahead
Following the premiere of Inside Out 2 on June 14, 2024, Pixar seems to have found its groove once again. This victory not only signifies a substantial financial gain but more importantly, it reinstates the studio’s reputation as creators of high-quality, commercially successful movies. With this significant feat, it’s safe to say that the future looks promising for Pixar. Will they continue this winning streak? Only time will tell, but for now, fans cannot get enough of Inside Out 2.
